CORDOBA
The Province of Córdoba is the beating heart of Andalusia’s heritage, a place where three cultures once thrived in harmony, leaving a breathtaking legacy.
This region is an open-air museum of history, from the awe-inspiring Mezquita to the majestic Roman ruins and the charming towns nestled in the mountains and countryside.
Córdoba City
Most Popular Attractions
Mezquita-Cathedral of Córdoba: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a breathtaking monument of Islamic and Christian architecture, featuring a forest of columns and a stunning cathedral built within a mosque.
Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos: A medieval palace with beautiful courtyards and gardens, once the residence of Catholic Monarchs.
Roman Bridge (Puente Romano): An ancient bridge spanning the Guadalquivir River, offering iconic views of the Mezquita and surrounding area.
Judería (Old Jewish Quarter): A labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, courtyards, and whitewashed houses, home to the synagogue and the Casa de Sefarad museum.
Calleja de las Flores (Street of Flowers): A picturesque alleyway famous for its flower-filled patios and a classic view of the Mezquita’s bell tower.
Palacio de Viana: A grand palace famous for its twelve beautiful patios and gardens, each with its own unique style.
Synagogue of Córdoba: One of the three best-preserved medieval synagogues in Spain and a testament to the city’s multicultural past.
Plaza de la Corredera: A unique, rectangular plaza in the heart of the city, resembling a classic Castilian town square.
Patios de Córdoba (Festival): Every May, courtyards across the city are opened to the public, showcasing a vibrant display of flowers and intricate decorations.
Medina Azahara: The ruins of a magnificent medieval palace-city built by a Caliph in the 10th century, located just outside of the city.
Activities & Experiences
Visit the Mosque-Cathedral: Explore this unique UNESCO World Heritage site that seamlessly blends Islamic and Christian architecture. It’s an unforgettable walk through a forest of striped arches and a grand cathedral nave.
Wander Through the Jewish Quarter (Judería): Get lost in the labyrinth of narrow, whitewashed streets with colorful flower pots. Stop at the historic synagogue and the Chapel of San Bartolomé.
Explore the Patios of Cordoba: Discover the city’s famous courtyards, especially beautiful during the annual Patios Festival in May, where residents open their patios to the public to showcase their stunning floral displays.
See a Flamenco Show in a Local Patio: Experience an intimate and authentic flamenco performance in the traditional setting of a Cordoban courtyard, often featuring local artists.
Discover the Medina Azahara: Just a short drive from the city, these are the ruins of a vast, opulent medieval city and palace built in the 10th century. A visit here offers a fascinating look into the glory of the Umayyad Caliphate.
Cross the Roman Bridge at Sunset: Walk across the 16-arch bridge, originally built by the Romans, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city’s skyline, with the Mosque-Cathedral and Calahorra Tower in the background.
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: See the city from a classic horse-drawn carriage. It’s a charming way to tour the historic center, from the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos to the city’s main squares.
Learn About the Caliphate Baths: Visit the Hammam de los Baños Califales, a public bath complex from the 10th century, located near the Alcázar. It provides insight into the importance of hygiene and communal life in Islamic Cordoba.
Taste Local Wine and Tapas in a Taberna: Cordoba has a strong tradition of local taverns. Enjoy a glass of Montilla-Moriles wine, similar to sherry, alongside classic Cordoban tapas like salmorejo or flamenquín.
Go on an Olive Oil Tasting Tour: The province is a major producer of olive oil. Take a day trip to an olive mill in the countryside to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of “liquid gold.”
Visit the Viana Palace: This is a hidden gem with 12 magnificent patios, each with a unique character and style. The palace also has an impressive collection of art, tapestries, and antique furniture.
Go to the Feria de Córdoba: If you are visiting in late May, experience the city’s week-long fair. The fairgrounds are filled with colorful tents (casetas), where locals dance sevillanas, drink fino sherry, and socialize.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is the Best Way to See the City: Cordoba’s historic center is compact and best explored on foot. The most famous sights, from the Mosque-Cathedral to the Alcázar, are all within a short walk of each other. The narrow, winding streets of the Jewish Quarter are a delight to wander through.
Buses Are Efficient for Longer Distances: The city has a reliable bus network (Aucorsa) that connects the historic center to the newer parts of the city and the suburbs. You can buy tickets from the driver.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available at taxi stands and can be hailed on the street. They’re a convenient option for getting to and from the train station or for traveling longer distances within the city, especially on hot days.
From the Train Station: The Cordoba train station (Estación de Córdoba) is centrally located. You can easily walk to the historic center in about 15-20 minutes, or you can take a local bus or taxi. High-speed trains (AVE) connect Cordoba to Madrid and Seville quickly and efficiently.
Embrace the Heat: Cordoba is one of the hottest cities in Europe, especially in July and August when temperatures can consistently exceed 40°C (104°F). Plan your sightseeing for the early morning or late evening. Take a long siesta in the afternoon to avoid the most intense heat.
Dining Times: Like the rest of Andalusia, locals in Cordoba eat late. Lunch is typically from 2 PM to 4 PM and dinner starts after 9 PM. Don’t be surprised to find restaurants empty if you try to eat earlier.
Local Delicacies: Be sure to try local specialties. Salmorejo is a thicker version of gazpacho, often served with diced ham and hard-boiled egg. Flamenquín is a deep-fried roll of pork loin or ham. And while you can find rabo de toro (braised oxtail) all over Andalusia, it is a specialty of Cordoba.
The Patios: The city is famous for its patios, and while they are at their best during the May festival, many are open year-round for a small fee or as part of a tour. You can also find some of the most beautiful courtyards in the Viana Palace.
Hidden Gems:
- Calleja de las Flores (Alley of Flowers): While not entirely hidden, this famous alley is a must-see. The narrow street is lined with whitewashed walls and vibrant flowers. It offers a classic, picturesque view of the Mosque-Cathedral’s bell tower.
- The Roman Temple: Tucked away in the modern city center are the impressive ruins of a Roman temple, complete with towering columns. It’s a surprising sight to stumble upon.
- Plaza de la Corredera: This unique, rectangular plaza feels more like a Castilian square than an Andalusian one. It is an impressive open space with arcades, great for having a drink or a meal.
Top Restaurants
Casa Santos [$10-$20] – A famous, tiny bar right next to the Mezquita-Catedral, known for what many consider the best and largest potato tortilla (omelet) in the city. There’s no seating, so expect to eat your tapa standing or on the wall outside.
Bodegas Campos [$25-$40] – A historic institution in Cordoba, this is a beautiful spot with multiple patios and dining rooms that were once wine cellars. It’s an ideal place for a larger meal with classic Cordoban dishes like rabo de toro (oxtail) and salmorejo.
Taberna La Vieja de la Judería [$20-$30] – A classic tavern in the Jewish Quarter known for its authentic, hearty Cordoban dishes and traditional atmosphere, with specialties like flamenquín and berenjenas con miel.
Taberna El Nº 10 [$25-$35] – A charming taberna in the city’s historic center that offers a creative twist on classic Andalusian cuisine, with a menu that focuses on fresh, local ingredients.
Bar El Pisto (Taberna San Miguel) [$15-$25] – A hugely popular and historic tavern in the San Miguel neighborhood, renowned for its lively atmosphere and traditional Cordoban food. It’s a great place to sample local favorites like salmorejo and fried eggplant with honey.
Taberna Luque [$20-$30] – A well-regarded spot near the Mosque-Cathedral, this taberna is celebrated for its homemade dishes, including its flamenquín and an excellent rabo de toro.
Casa Pepe de la Judería [$25-$40] – Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, this restaurant is a local institution that combines traditional Cordoban dishes with a more refined dining experience, and features a rooftop terrace with views of the Mezquita-Catedral.
Taberna Góngora [$15-$25] – A long-standing, no-frills local favorite known for its exceptional food at a great price. It’s a fantastic spot for a classic, unpretentious tapas experience.
Taberna Los Berengueles [$25-$35] – This elegant tavern is housed in a historic building and offers a menu that blends tradition with modern Andalusian flair. It’s a must-visit for its refined Cordoban dishes.
Taberna Salinas [$20-$30] – A classic, family-run restaurant with a beautiful interior courtyard, this spot is known for its traditional, homemade Cordoban cooking.
Garum 2.1 Bistró [$25-$40] – A trendy gastrobar in the old town that offers a fusion of traditional Spanish dishes with modern, creative touches. It’s a lively spot with a unique menu.
La Regadera [$30-$50] – With an intimate setting by the river, this restaurant is a modern gem that presents traditional flavors as a work of art. The focus is on creative and beautifully plated dishes.
Sociedad de Plateros María Auxiliadora [$20-$30] – Located in a historic building with a charming courtyard, this modern spot is a great place to try a contemporary take on traditional Cordoban cuisine.
Taberna El Abanico Patio [$15-$25] – A fresh and modern place that offers classic Cordoban dishes with a contemporary flair. The recipes are even posted on the walls for a fun, creative experience.
La Casa del Pedro Ximénez [$20-$35] – A creative restaurant that specializes in dishes prepared with Pedro Ximénez sherry. It’s a unique and delightful culinary experience for wine lovers and foodies alike.
Lamundi [$20-$30] – A well-regarded modern restaurant with a diverse and innovative menu that puts a new spin on local flavors.
La Taberna de Almodóvar [$25-$35] – A modern spot that’s beloved by locals for its authentic and expertly prepared Andalusian dishes that feel both traditional and new.
Terra Olea [$40-$60] – This restaurant provides a unique dining experience with surprising gourmet recipes and a focus on high-quality ingredients, earning it a Michelin Guide mention.
Restaurante Choco [$100-$150] – This Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef Kisko García, is a temple to Cordoban cuisine, preserving tradition while also innovating with every dish.
Noor [$150-$250] – The city’s only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef Paco Morales. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that delves into the city’s rich Islamic heritage through a complex and beautiful tasting menu.
Arbequina [$60-$90] – Located in a beautiful hotel, this refined restaurant offers a bold fusion menu that incorporates both traditional tavern-style dishes and creative, international flavors.
Recomiendo [$60-$90] – This upscale dining experience focuses on innovative dishes that are designed to stimulate all of the senses.
Bodegas Mezquita Céspedes [$30-$50] – A well-known spot that offers an innovative take on traditional Spanish cuisine. It’s a great choice for a high-quality meal without the price of a formal restaurant.
El Envero [$35-$55] – A modern restaurant known for its creative food and excellent value. It offers a sophisticated dining experience in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mercado Victoria [$15-$30] – Cordoba’s first gourmet market is a fantastic place for a casual meal or tapas crawl. It features a variety of food stalls serving everything from traditional Spanish food to international cuisine.
Puerta Sevilla [$20-$35] – A charming and authentic eatery near the old Alcázar that’s known for its delicious food and traditional atmosphere.
Casa Mazal [$25-$40] – This unique restaurant in the Jewish Quarter serves a modern interpretation of Sephardic and Andalusian cuisine, creating a fascinating and flavorful culinary journey.
Taberna El Gallo [$20-$30] – A no-frills local spot that is a favorite for its rabo de toro and other classic Cordoban dishes.
Restaurante Asador La Muralla [$25-$40] – Located in Priego de Córdoba, this restaurant is a local favorite known for its traditional Andalusian cuisine, especially its grilled meats.
Restaurante El Cortijo [$20-$35] – A classic and highly-regarded restaurant in Lucena that’s known for its traditional Cordoban dishes and an extensive wine list featuring local Montilla-Moriles wines.
Vaquena [$30-$45] – A highly-rated steakhouse in Cabra that’s famous for its high-quality cuts of meat, including local Iberian pork, and a welcoming, traditional ambiance.
La Pianola Casa Pepe [$25-$40] – A charming restaurant in Priego de Córdoba that offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients.
Mesón La Casilla de Cabra [$20-$30] – A traditional meson in the town of Cabra that offers a variety of classic tapas and hearty Cordoban dishes, popular with locals for its authentic food.
La Cepa Montillana [$20-$35] – Located in Montilla, this steakhouse is a fantastic place to enjoy high-quality meat and local wines from the Montilla-Moriles region.
Gastrobar Jarana [$25-$40] – A modern and creative gastrobar in the town of Baena that provides a unique blend of traditional and avant-garde cuisine.
Mesón Sabor a Jerez [$25-$40] – Located in the heart of the White Village of Grazalema, this restaurant is a must-visit for its wild boar and other local meats.
El Churrasco [$30-$50] – This is a beloved Cordoban institution, located in the Jewish Quarter, that has been serving some of the best grilled meats in the city for over 50 years.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Soho Córdoba: Found in the heart of the city’s nightlife district, this trendy bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a wide selection of cocktails. It’s known for its skilled bartenders and contemporary setting.
Taberna La Esquina: A traditional and authentic bar near the Judería (Jewish Quarter), this spot is famous for its delicious local wines and classic Spanish tapas, providing a true taste of Cordoba.
Sojo Terraza: Offering breathtaking views of the Guadalquivir River and the Roman Bridge, this rooftop terrace is a must-visit for a sunset drink. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Café Bar Moriles Ribera: Located close to the city center, this classic bar offers a laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of drinks, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed evening.
Góngora Café-Bar: A chic and modern bar with a relaxed atmosphere, Góngora is a great place to enjoy a cocktail or a glass of wine in the city center.
El Gallo del Centro: Situated in the historic center, this small and cozy bar is a popular spot for a pre-dinner drink, known for its friendly service and traditional ambiance.
Pub Moma: A vibrant and modern bar located in the city center, known for its lively atmosphere and a wide variety of cocktails and shots.
Clandestino: A unique and intimate cocktail bar in the city center, offering a speakeasy-style experience with creative drinks and a sophisticated vibe.
Paddy O’Connell’s: For those seeking a different atmosphere, this Irish pub in the city center offers a wide selection of beers and spirits, creating a fun and friendly environment.
Terraza Victoria: Located on the rooftop of a hotel in the city center, this terrace bar offers stunning panoramic views of Cordoba, making it an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
El Bolero: A cozy and authentic bar in the heart of Cordoba, popular with locals for its traditional music and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Bodega Campos: An iconic and historic spot in Cordoba, this traditional tavern offers an extensive list of local wines and a charming ambiance.
Los Patios de la Judería: Located within the Jewish Quarter, this bar is set in a beautiful traditional Cordoban courtyard, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy a drink.
Taverna El Taburete: A lively bar in the city center with a great selection of local wines and an authentic Spanish atmosphere.
Sala Moma: A popular and stylish club in the city center with a flamboyant, retro-chic atmosphere, themed parties, DJs, and light shows. It’s known for a mix of reggaeton, commercial, and house music.
Sala Metrópolis: One of the largest and most famous clubs in Cordoba, featuring multiple halls, bars, and VIP lounges. Located close to the city center, it is a popular spot for students and young people.
Sala Hangar: This high-energy club, located in an old warehouse, offers a unique and extravagant experience with live performances and diverse music.
Long Rock: A popular spot for live rock and blues bands, located centrally in the city, offering a great alternative to electronic music.
Ambigu Axerquía: A trendy nightclub with a focus on electronic, house, and techno music. It is located near the Guadalquivir river.
Góngora Café-Bar: A two-floor club that starts as a relaxed bar on the first floor and turns into a lively dance floor on the second.
O’clock: A nightclub in Cordoba with an opulent design and an exotic touch, featuring local DJs on weekends.
Babylon: A cozy nightclub in the old town with a lively atmosphere, popular with both locals and tourists.
Boom Boom Room: A trendy lounge bar in the city center known for its eclectic mix of reggaeton, pop, and global music.
Pangea Club: A popular nightclub in the city center that offers a great party atmosphere and often has special offers for groups.
La Tinta: A classic nightclub in Cordoba with a retro atmosphere and a great mix of music. It is popular with both locals and tourists.
Córdoba Province
Most Popular Attractions
Montilla-Moriles: A renowned wine region known for its dry Fino wines, with many bodegas offering tours and tastings.
Priego de Córdoba: Known as the “Baroque Jewel,” this town is famous for its ornate churches, including the stunning fountain of King’s street (Fuente de la calle del Rey).
Cabra: A town in the heart of the Subbética region, with an impressive castle and the beautiful Sierra de Cabra Natural Park nearby.
Zuheros: A small white village with a dramatic castle perched on a cliffside, offering stunning views and access to the Murciélagos Cave (Cave of the Bats).
Baena: Famous for its top-tier olive oil, with a historic castle and a beautiful old town.
Palma del Río: A historic town with a beautiful riverside location, a well-preserved wall, and an impressive convent.
Lucena: Known as the “Pearl of the Subbética,” with a rich Jewish heritage and the impressive Castillo del Moral.
Almodóvar del Río Castle: A majestic medieval fortress that has been used as a filming location for shows like Game of Thrones.
Fuente Obejuna: The site of a historical uprising, this town has a beautiful old quarter and a history of resistance.
Hornachuelos: A town within a large nature park, known for its hunting and beautiful natural landscapes.
Parque Natural de las Sierras Subbéticas: A vast natural park perfect for hiking and exploring the beautiful mountainous landscape.
Rute: Famous for its anise-flavored liquor and its unique Nativity scenes made from chocolate.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the White Villages of the Subbética: Drive through the beautiful Sierra Subbética Natural Park and discover charming white villages like Zuheros, with its impressive cave, and Priego de Córdoba, known for its Baroque architecture.
Cycle the Via Verde de la Subbética: Rent a bike and ride along this scenic 58-kilometer greenway that follows an old railway line through the heart of the province. You’ll pass through olive groves, viaducts, and tunnels.
Hike in the Sierra de Hornachuelos Natural Park: Located west of the city, this is a vast, rugged park ideal for hiking. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and spotting red deer or wild boar.
Visit the Castillo de Belalcázar: This well-preserved medieval castle offers stunning views of the northern part of the province. Its four impressive towers are a remarkable sight against the skyline.
Experience the History of Montilla-Moriles Wine: Take a day trip to the Montilla-Moriles wine region, visiting its famous bodegas (wineries). Learn about the unique production of these wines, which are a protected designation of origin.
Discover the Roman Ruins of Torreparedones: This is one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in the province. Wander through the remains of a Roman forum, theater, and baths.
Go Canyoning in the Sierra Morena: For the adventurous, the rugged landscapes of the Sierra Morena offer opportunities for canyoning and other outdoor activities.
Taste Local Gastronomy in a Rural Setting: In the small towns of the province, you can find authentic local dishes like rabo de toro (oxtail) or flamenquín (deep-fried pork loin rolls) prepared with a traditional touch.
Visit the Hermitage of La Virgen de la Sierra: Hike or drive to this beautiful hermitage, perched high in the mountains near Cabra. The views from the top are spectacular, offering a panoramic outlook over the province.
Explore a Local Olive Oil Mill in Baena: Visit the town of Baena, one of the most important olive oil-producing areas in Spain. Many mills offer guided tours and tastings of their award-winning olive oils.
Local Tips & Transport
A Car is Essential: To fully explore the diverse landscapes and small towns of Cordoba province, a car is highly recommended. It gives you the flexibility to visit the stunning White Villages of the Subbética, the Sierra Morena, and the famous olive groves.
Bus Connections: The bus network connects the city of Cordoba to the larger towns in the province. However, for smaller, more rural villages, service can be limited. The main bus station is next to the train station in the city.
Train Connections: Cordoba’s train station is a major hub, with high-speed (AVE) and regional trains. Regional trains (Media Distancia) can take you to places like Rute or Baena, but a car is still more convenient for seeing the entire province.
The Olive Oil Heartland: The province of Cordoba is a key player in the global olive oil industry. The region around Priego de Córdoba and Baena, in particular, produces some of Spain’s most famous and award-winning extra virgin olive oil. Don’t leave without tasting and buying some.
Montilla-Moriles Wine: This region’s wine is often compared to sherry but is distinct in its own right. The most common varieties are fino and amontillado, made from the Pedro Ximénez grape. Visit a local bodega and a taberna in the town of Montilla to experience the wine culture firsthand.
Subbética Natural Park: This park is a paradise for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The landscapes are dramatic, with rolling hills, limestone crags, and scenic views. It’s also a great area for birdwatching.
Hidden Gems:
Zuheros: A postcard-perfect white village perched on a rock face. Explore its narrow streets and visit the Cueva de los Murciélagos (Cave of Bats), a prehistoric cave with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
The Priego de Córdoba Baroque Route: The town of Priego is known as the “jewel of Andalusian Baroque.” Wander through the town to see the Iglesia de la Asunción, a stunning church with an elaborate Baroque sagrario (tabernacle).
Fuente Tójar: A small town in the Subbética known for its unique Roman-era dance festival, the Danza de los Diablos. If you’re visiting during Corpus Christi, you might be able to witness this fascinating cultural event.
The Almodóvar del Río Castle: This magnificent medieval castle, located on a hill overlooking the Guadalquivir River, has been a filming location for Game of Thrones. It’s a beautiful, well-preserved fortress with spectacular views.
Top Restaurants
Restaurante Asador La Muralla [$25-$40] – Located in Priego de Córdoba, this restaurant is a local favorite known for its traditional Andalusian cuisine, especially its grilled meats.
Restaurante El Cortijo [$20-$35] – A classic and highly-regarded restaurant in Lucena that’s known for its traditional Cordoban dishes and an extensive wine list featuring local Montilla-Moriles wines.
Vaquena [$30-$45] – A highly-rated steakhouse in Cabra that’s famous for its high-quality cuts of meat, including local Iberian pork, and a welcoming, traditional ambiance.
La Pianola Casa Pepe [$25-$40] – A charming restaurant in Priego de Córdoba that offers a mix of traditional and modern cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients.
Mesón La Casilla de Cabra [$20-$30] – A traditional meson in the town of Cabra that offers a variety of classic tapas and hearty Cordoban dishes, popular with locals for its authentic food.
La Cepa Montillana [$20-$35] – Located in Montilla, this steakhouse is a fantastic place to enjoy high-quality meat and local wines from the Montilla-Moriles region.
Gastrobar Jarana [$25-$40] – A modern and creative gastrobar in the town of Baena that provides a unique blend of traditional and avant-garde cuisine.
Mesón Sabor a Jerez [$25-$40] – Located in the heart of the White Village of Grazalema, this restaurant is a must-visit for its wild boar and other local meats.
El Churrasco [$30-$50] – This is a beloved Cordoban institution, located in the Jewish Quarter, that has been serving some of the best grilled meats in the city for over 50 years.